Government announcements introduce new measures to strengthen flood resilience, improve access to justice, support victims of abuse and encourage responsible firework use
Government announces new measures to strengthen flood preparedness
The government has announced two initiatives aimed at improving the country’s ability to prepare for and respond to flooding, drought and increasingly unpredictable weather.
A new Flood and Drought Resilience Taskforce will bring together representatives from government, industry and other organisations to strengthen national planning and improve responses to extreme weather events.
The taskforce will consider how communities can be better supported and how organisations can work together to reduce the impact of flooding and drought.
Alongside this, the Environment Agency has launched Flood Action Online, bringing together practical information to help people understand their flood risk and prepare their homes and communities.
The online service provides advice on preparing for flooding, understanding warnings and taking steps to reduce potential damage.
These announcements are particularly relevant to communities that may be affected by flooding, including rural and coastal areas across East Riding and North Lincolnshire.
Community organisations, parish councils and voluntary groups can help raise awareness of flood preparedness information and support residents who may need additional assistance during emergencies.
Read more:
- New taskforce to boost Britain’s resilience to flooding and drought
- New one-stop shop for flood preparedness launched
Remote court hearings aim to reduce delays for victims
The Ministry of Justice has announced plans to expand the use of remote court hearings to improve court capacity and reduce delays in the justice system.
The approach will enable judges to hear certain cases remotely, helping courts make better use of available resources and potentially reducing waiting times.
The government hopes the changes will support a more efficient justice system while maintaining safeguards to protect fairness and access to justice.
For victims of crime, delays in court proceedings can create additional uncertainty and distress. Improving the speed at which cases are heard could help reduce some of these pressures.
The announcement may be of interest to organisations providing victim support, advocacy, safeguarding and other services to people affected by crime.
Read more about remote court hearings
New campaign encourages communities to support victims of abuse
The government has launched a campaign encouraging people to respond appropriately and supportively when someone shares an experience of abuse.
The campaign promotes the message Listen. Believe. Support. and highlights the important role friends, family members, colleagues and communities can play in helping victims feel safe and seek assistance.
For many people experiencing abuse, speaking to someone they trust may be the first step towards accessing professional support.
A supportive response can help individuals feel heard and encourage them to consider the options available.
The campaign encourages people to listen without judgement, take disclosures seriously and help individuals access appropriate services where needed.
The guidance is particularly relevant to community organisations, volunteers, youth workers and professionals who may be approached by someone experiencing abuse.
Read more about supporting victims of abuse
Firework safety campaign encourages consideration for neighbours
The Office for Product Safety and Standards has launched a campaign encouraging residents to think about the wider impact of fireworks.
The Think Beyond Your Garden campaign highlights how fireworks can affect neighbours, pets, wildlife and people who may be particularly sensitive to loud or unexpected noises.
This includes people experiencing anxiety, dementia or post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as autistic people and those with sensory sensitivities.
Residents planning firework displays are encouraged to consider the timing of celebrations, give neighbours advance notice and follow appropriate safety advice.
The campaign aims to promote responsible celebrations while reducing the potential impact on other members of the community.
Read more about the firework safety campaign
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